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The theory of plate tectonics


Vocabulary


plates- when the lithosphere is broken into separate sections it is called plates
scientific theory- a well-tested concept that explains a wide range of observations
plate tectonics- a theory that states pieces of earth's lithosphere are in constant, slow-motion, driven by convection currents in the mantle
faults- breaks in earth's crust where rocks have slipped past each other
transform boundary- a place where two plates slip past each other, moving in opposite directions
divergent boundary- the place where two plates move apart, or diverge
rift valley- rift valley is a deep vally that forms along the divergent boundary
convergent boundary- convergent boudary is when two plate come together

Outline


Intro
  • plates
    • when lithosphere is broken in to sections
A Theory of plate tectonics
  • Wilson's scientific theory
    • the theory of plate tectonics
  • Evidence of plate boundaries
    • Transform boundary
      • two plates slip past each other in opposite directions
    • divergent boundaries
      • were two plates more apart
    • convergent boundaries
      • the place two plates come together or converge
  • Evidence of continents slow dance
    • move at very slow rates
      • 2.5 centimeters per year

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